Royal Hospital Chelsea - Become a Chelsea Pensioner

The Royal Hospital Chelsea has been the home of the Chelsea Pensioners since 1692 and since its first residents moved in 332 years ago providing accommodation and care for its 300 In-Pensioners. However, it does more today than ever before as the institution now represents, very publicly, the covenant that exists between the nation and its Armed Forces. Collectively, the Chelsea Pensioners attend over 600 external events a year, the highest profile being over Remembrance weekend, and the general public are always interested in the lives of our In-Pensioners.

Inside the gates, the In-Pensioners are a vibrant community involved in a wide range of activities with 66 acres of grounds and gardens to enjoy, and facilities including a newly built hobby centre nestled amongst our historic buildings. We have regular entertainment nights and opportunities for socialising including external visits to places of interest. Visits to Corps and Regimental museums are always well attended.

The In-Pensioners have many different interests and experiences which helps to create the sense of community and comradeship that is felt here. Life as a Chelsea Pensioner encourages a sense of pride and belonging that is so important for veterans.

We are in constant need of new recruits who hold the values and standards needed to represent this great institution and to be advocates for the wider veteran community. We recruit both male and female former soldiers, of any religion, ethnicity, or cultural background, from all regiments and corps, and from all parts of the UK and beyond.

Criteria for application:

A former Private Soldier, Non-Commissioned Officer, Warrant Officer of the British Army. Late Entry Officers may apply subject to having served time in the ranks but will wear their soldier rank on their Chelsea Pensioner uniform.

In receipt of your State Pension or eligible to receive it.
Free of financial obligation to support a spouse of family (we do not accept applications from individuals who are currently married, in a civil partnership or have children under 18 yrs. old)
Able to live independently in our Long Ward accommodation. We don’t accept applications from those who currently require residential or nursing care.

If you are looking for something more from life in retirement or still have the urge and drive to do something different and think you have what it takes to be a Chelsea Pensioner, then get in touch. Our Admissions Team would love to hear from you.

Contact details:

Greta Kendall

Admissions Officer

Tel: 0207 881 5204

E-mail: [email protected]